The SB Post

Santa Barbara After Dark

Santa Barbara is best known for the elements that are enjoyed in the light of day -- the sea, beaches, mountains, gardens, parks, etc. Contrary to popular belief, Santa Barbara does offer more than sunshine and roses! Yes, our nightlife scene is relatively mellow (unless you're a college student). But if you know where to go, there's plenty of good, clean fun to be had at night. In honor of the Winter Solstice, here's a rundown of 21 places to go and things to do after dark.

1. Settle in for drinks at Joe's Café, a Santa Barbara institution (since 1928) on State Street.
2. Belly up to the bar at Brophy Brother's for the catch of the day and cocktails overlooking the Harbor.
3. Sip on local wines at Wine Cask Bar-Café (a.k.a. Intermezzo).
4. Catch a show at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club.
5. Monopolize the juke box at The Press Room.
6. Play pool at Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant.
7. Throw darts at James Joyce.
8. Soak up the scene at Blue Agave.
9. Dance the night away at Wildcat Lounge.
10. Lounge the night away at Elsie's Tavern (hit the ATM first, it's a cash-only joint).
11. See a burlesque performance at The Savoy.
12. Go Italian at Arnoldi's Café, where dinner comes with a side of bocce ball.
13. Channel "The Dude" at Zodo's Bowling & Beyond.
14. People watch from the bar at Lucky's Steakhouse in Montecito.
15. Star gaze at San Ysidro Ranch -- choose from The Stonehouse or the more casual Plow & Angel.
16. Head to the hills for a movie at the Riviera Theatre, where the indie and foreign films play.
17. Make it a double-feature at the West Wind Drive-In.
18. Eat, drink and be merry at The Brewhouse.
19. Tap into the arts scene at Red's Bar & Tapas in the Funk Zone.
20. Mix, mingle and munch [on the sweet potato fries] at HobNob.
21. Kick back and relax at Muddy Waters Café.